History

Henry Wickenburg came to the area in search of gold. He was rewarded with the discovery of Vulture Mine, where over $30 million in gold was found. There are still relics around the area that stand as a tribute to these early adventurers as well as a walking tour around Vulture Mine.

Ranchers & Farmers
Ranchers and farmers discovered the fertile flood plain of the Hassayampa River and settled in the area. The Hassayampa River Preserve lets you escape to a literal oasis in the desert with lush, streamside habitat that include many endangered birds and animals. Together with Henry Wickenburg and the miners, they helped found the young community of Wickenburg in 1863. The Town of Wickenburg was incorporated in 1909.

Rough Start
It was a rough start for the town with Indian wars, mine closures, desperados, drought and a disastrous flood in 1890 when the Walnut Creek Dam burst. Despite these trials and tribulations the town continued to grow. In 1895 the railroad arrived in town. The historic depot still stands today as the Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce building. For a more in depth history or event information, please visit the Chamber of Commerce's website at www.wickenburgchamber.com. The Chamber has a self-guided walking tour of the downtown including the jail tree that once served at the town jail and 23 structures that are on the National Historical Register. Don't miss Gold Rush Days, in February. For the past 57 years we have celebrated our rich western heritage, including a shootout, 1 of the largest parades in Arizona, gold panning and a rodeo. The Desert Caballeros Western Museum, filled with western art and frontier history, has been identified as " 1 of the finest small museums in the state, maybe in the nation". (Copley News Service).

Nature
Today Wickenburg is known for its clean air, wide-open spaced, guest ranches, tourism and medical services sector. It is the Dude Ranch Capital of Arizona with 4 ranches that still offer a unique Western experience ranging from a cozy adobe hacienda to a modern ranch resort complete with championship golf course. Wickenburg is growing as a leader in the medical services sector with Remuda Ranch, for eating disorders and the Meadows, for treatment of addictions.